New Zealand Certificate in Avalanche Risk Management (Level 6)
Wanaka , New Zealand
Tuition Fee
NZD 14,849
Per course
Start Date
Medium of studying
Blended
Duration
24 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Diploma
Major
Earth Sciences | Geography | Geology
Area of study
Natural Science
Education type
Blended
Timing
Part time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
NZD 14,849
Intakes
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-07-21 | - |
| 2024-09-02 | - |
About Program
Program Overview
This Level 7 Avalanche Risk Management Certificate equips graduates to lead in the avalanche industry. It combines online theory, mentored feedback, and hands-on training to develop expertise in decision-making, terrain analysis, and field assessment. The program meets the industry's growing demand for qualified safety personnel, opening career opportunities in tourism, ski fields, guiding, and roading operations.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This certificate provides the highest level of avalanche training available in New Zealand. Graduates will be able to assume supervisory roles in all sectors of the industry. The program combines online theory with practical blocks comprising on-snow training and assessment.
Outline:
The program takes 20 weeks over 1-2 years (part-time) to complete. It includes:
- Online teaching and learning: Learners work through exercises and formative assessment to reinforce learning.
- Practical block: Learners consolidate their field-based skills several weeks prior to the integrated practical application block, where the final assessments take place.
- Further learning opportunities: Incorporating a reflective logbook, requiring mentored feedback that is mostly done in an operational (workplace) setting.
- Assessment methods: Practical (field) assessment, written assignments, presentations, and written exams.
Course Schedule:
- Field training: 21 - 26 July 2024
- Integrated Practical Assessment (IPA): 2 - 8 September 2024
Modules:
- Decision Making and Operational Performance (theory): 15 credits
- Terrain and Snowpack Theory (theory): 15 credits
- Applied Avalanche Studies (practical recorded mentored feedback): 15 credits
- Field Training (theory and six-day practical block course): 15 credits
- Integrated Practical Application (seven-day final practical block course): 10 credits
Assessment:
- Practical (field) assessment: Evaluates skills in real-world avalanche scenarios.
- Written assignments: Assess understanding of theoretical concepts.
- Presentations: Demonstrate communication and presentation skills.
- Written exams: Test knowledge of avalanche theory and practices.
Teaching:
- Online learning: Provides flexibility and accessibility.
- Practical blocks: Offer hands-on experience and skill development.
- Mentored feedback: Provides personalized guidance and support.
- Faculty: Experienced professionals in the avalanche risk management field.
Careers:
- Tourism ventures: Guiding, safety management, and risk assessment.
- Ski-field roles: Patrol, avalanche forecasting, and safety education.
- Guiding: Leading groups in avalanche terrain.
- Roading operations: Snow safety and risk management for road maintenance.
Other:
- Demand for qualified snow safety personnel: The snowsport tourism industry is growing, creating a steady demand for qualified professionals.
- Flexible study: The online nature of the program allows students to fit their studies around other commitments.
Domestic fees
Full tuition Standard $4,659
International fees
Full tuition Standard $14,849
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About University
Otago Polytechnic
Overview:
Otago Polytechnic is a tertiary education institution located in New Zealand. It offers a wide range of qualifications and courses, from certificates to doctorates, across various fields. The institution emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical skills and experience relevant to their chosen careers.
Services Offered:
Otago Polytechnic offers a variety of services to support students, including:
Accessibility and disability services:
Support for students with disabilities.Campus tours:
Guided tours of the institution's campuses.Accommodation assistance:
Guidance on finding accommodation options, including on-campus housing, flatting, homestay, and renting.Career advice:
Support in exploring career options and developing career plans.Fees and funding information:
Information on tuition fees and available funding options, including scholarships and government schemes.International student support:
Specific services and resources for international students, including information on English language requirements, entry requirements, and international partnerships.Māori and Pasifika culture and support:
Resources and support for Māori and Pasifika students.Student support services:
A range of services to assist students with their academic and personal well-being.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Otago Polytechnic provides a welcoming and inclusive learning environment with a focus on student support. Students can expect:
Friendly and inclusive atmosphere:
A supportive and welcoming community.Modern facilities:
Access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology.Real-world experiences:
Opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, projects, and industry placements.Flexible study options:
A variety of learning formats, including on-campus, online, and blended learning.Sustainability initiatives:
A commitment to environmental sustainability.Rainbow Tick Certification:
A commitment to creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students and staff.Key Reasons to Study There:
Educational excellence:
High-quality teaching and a strong focus on student success.Hands-on learning:
Practical, skills-based learning that prepares students for the workforce.Personal growth and support:
A supportive environment with a range of services to assist students.Flexible study options:
A variety of learning formats to suit individual needs and preferences.Free fees and scholarships:
Opportunities to reduce or eliminate tuition costs.Academic Programs:
Otago Polytechnic offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Adventure & Tourism:
Programs in avalanche safety, bike mechanics, hospitality, outdoor education, snowsports, and tourism.Agriculture & Animal Healthcare:
Programs in animal care, avian wildlife, beekeeping, high-country farming, and veterinary nursing.Art:
Programs in ceramics, digital media and photography, and visual arts.Business:
Programs in accounting, administration, applied management, event management, human resources, professional development, and sales & marketing.Community Services:
Programs in addiction, disability support, Hauora Māori, mental health, and social services.Construction:
Programs in architecture, carpentry, construction management, and stonemasonry.Design:
Programs in architecture, communication design, digital media, fashion design, game design and development, and product design.Education & Culture:
Programs in English language, outdoor education, teaching, and Te Reo & Tikanga.Engineering:
Programs in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.Food & Hospitality:
Programs in brewing, cooking, culinary arts, and hospitality.Hair & Beauty:
Programs in beauty therapy and hairdressing.Health:
Programs in health pathways, massage therapy, mental health, midwifery, nursing, and occupational therapy.Horticulture:
Programs in amenity horticulture, arboriculture, fruit production, gardening, groundskeeping, nursery, and winemaking.Information Technology:
Programs in computing, game development, and information technology.Sport:
Programs in groundskeeping, gym & personal training, massage therapy, outdoor education, sport science, and snowsports.Trades & Pre-trades:
Programs in automotive, bike mechanics, carpentry, electrical trades, mechanical engineering, plumbing, and transport.Other:
Total programs
114
Location
